The Shoebill Stork Adventure at Mabamba Wetland – Best place to see a shoebill in it true natural habitat- Bird watching safaris in Uganda 

Shoebill Stork Adventure Mabamba. The Shoebill stork is one of the most opted for bird for bird lovers seeking to explore Uganda. This incredible bird species can best be sighted in mostly two locations in Uganda, that’s Murchison falls national game park and in the mabamba wetland.

Mabamba wetland.

The Mabamba Bay Wetland found across Lake Victoria in the west of Entebbe town and a few meters from Entebbe international airport. Mabamba is one of those expectational places  for bird watching safaris not only for the shoebill stork but for quite a number of other bird species. The wetland is home to around 300 bird species recorded including the Pallid Harrier, Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler and the Blue Swallow, Blue Swallow among others.

The wetland is protected under the Ramsar Convention, an intergovernmental treaty signed in 1971 in Iran for the protection of wetlands.

The birding excursion is done on the canoes through small channels of marsh-filled water and lagoons. The birds are best seen during morning hours though they can be spotted at any time throughout the day. Uganda birding safaris are very popular due to the vast numbers of bird species that can be spotted in any single tour. The shoebill can be spotted at any time either at Mabamba Bay Wetland or Murchison Falls National Park.

Other bird species at Mabamba include; Goliath Herons, Spur-winged White-winged Warbler, Gull-billed Terns, Whiskered Terns, Grey-headed Gulls, Papyrus Gonolek, yellow-backed weaver, Northern Brown-throated Weaver, White-winged Black Terns, Pygmy Geese, Malachite kingfisher, Papyrus Canary, Northern Brown-throated weaver, Carruther’s Cisticola, Blue-headed Coucal among many others.

While on a birding tour to Mabamba Bay area, you can also visit the woodland and savanna trail up to the sand mining quarry where other species of birds are likely to be found.

Booking a bird watching safari in Uganda with a reputable tour company is ideal for any birding enthusiasts looking to make the most of their safari in Uganda without any worry along the way. The local communities around Mabamba Bay Wetland have been trained as tour guides and now work to preserve the wetland.

Contact us with any inquiries about planning and organizing a birding safari through Uganda and most of all a shoebill stork adventure in Mabamba  wetland.

Cost of a 10 days Safari to Uganda.

Uganda Budget Safaris – Luxury Safaris through Uganda

Taking a Safari through Uganda is one of the best decisions anyone interested in experiencing the country should take. It allows one to have a true African experience from a single destination Uganda. The Safari involves trekking the Mountain Gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Game Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Game Park.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting activities while on a safari through Uganda and is a must-do. It involves a hike and trekking through the thick impenetrable vegetation of Bwindi impenetrable National game park until you have the opportunity to look directly into the eyes of the mountain gorillas.

For this exciting safari activity, we encourage visitors to carry their cameras and at times be on standby to take lifetime moments with the mountain gorillas with the Guidance of the game rangers.

What is the cost of a 10 Days trip to Uganda?

A 10 days safari through Uganda can cost anything between 5500 dollars to 3200 dollars per person. This is however dependent on quite several factors.  

The price of Safaris packages Through Uganda differs in price depending on several factors that have a significant impact on the overall safari cost. These factors are the basis of how safaris are divided into the categories of budget Mid-Range and Luxury.

Private tours are often more expensive than shared ones. Some travelers might wish to think about a fly-in safari on a 10-day journey, although fly-in safaris are relatively more costly than road safaris. Visitors should also take note that low-season costs can also be advantageous, and even if it may rain more during this time, the countryside is at its most beautiful.

Highlights Of a 10 days Safari through Uganda

Discover the famous Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks homes to more than half of the remaining population of Mountain gorillas.

Primates Trekking. Look into the eyes of a mountain gorilla, Trek the Ugandan jungles to see chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus, golden monkeys, and many other primates.

Wildlife safaris to Uganda Savanah National Parks including Lake Mburo national game park, Queen Elizabeth national game park, and Murchison Falls National game park.

Rhino tracking at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

A visit to Murchison Falls National game park.

Private tour guide in English and other languages

Transport in a travel Van Customized for safaris.

Accommodation selected to fit your expectations

An All-inclusive safari including lodging, entrance fees, meals, and transport

Guided walks with professional and knowledgeable guides

Unique accommodations including safari lodges and tented camps in various parks.

Cultural encounters with some of Uganda’s unique societies

What is included in the Cost of a 10 days trip through Uganda

The Cost of Your 10 days Safari Includes Gorilla permits, Chimpanzee Permits, an Experienced English-speaking guide, Park entrance fees, Cultural Encounters, Luxury lodge accommodation, Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bottled water, Government taxes.

Tour exclusions

Visa fees, laundry services & alcoholic drinks, International/domestic flights, and Tips to the driver guides, waiters, and porters.

Must do tourist activity on a 10-day safari through Uganda

Gorilla trekking is the most popular activity for a 10 days Uganda safari. Gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Game. Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place in Uganda to track mountain gorillas. The park protects 40% of the world’s mountain gorilla population and has an incredible 350 species of birds.

Accommodation offered on a 10 days Uganda safari?

After a long day surveying the incredible landscape and Uganda wildlife on offer, guests can look forward to the very best safari accommodation Uganda has to offer. The accommodation here is excellent with numerous options from tented camps, and luxury lodges to camping grounds.

From camping in the bush with amenities to mid-range and luxury lodges, there’s something for everyone here. There are various accommodation options in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park including Gorilla Heights Lodge.

Most luxury lodges also offer a seating area with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with bathrobes, slippers, and a shower. There is also a kitchen in some of the units equipped with a microwave, an oven, and a stovetop.

Chameleon Hill Lodge in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a luxury lodge built overlooking Lake Mutanda. The lodge has a beautiful compound with great views of the three volcanoes and a superb spot for those who have come for gorilla trekking, bird watching, golden monkey tracking, or canoeing on Lake Mutanda.

What is the best time to go on a 10-day safari to Uganda?

The best time to go on a 10 days gorilla trek in Uganda is during its two dry seasons: between December and February, and between June and August, when conditions are particularly good for trekking to see mountain gorillas chimpanzees, and other wildlife animals.

Cost of a 10 days Safari to Uganda

Uganda Budget Safaris – Luxury Safaris through Uganda

Taking a Safari through Uganda is one of the best decisions anyone interested in experiencing the country should take. It allows one to have a true African experience from a single destination Uganda. The Safari involves trekking the Mountain Gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Game Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Game Park.

Gorilla trekking is a must-do and one of the most exciting activities while on a safari through Uganda. It involves a hike and trekking through the thick impenetrable vegetation of Bwindi impenetrable National game park until you have the opportunity to look directly into the eyes of the mountain gorillas.

For this exciting safari activity, we encourage visitors to carry their cameras and at times be on standby to take lifetime moments with the mountain gorillas with the Guidance of the game rangers.

What is the cost of a 10 Days trip to Uganda?

A 10 days safari through Uganda can cost anything between 5500 dollars to 3200 dollars per person. This is however dependent on quite several factors.

The price of Safaris packages Through Uganda differs depending on several factors that significantly impact the overall safari cost. These factors are the basis of how safaris are divided into the categories of budget Mid-Range and Luxury.

Private tours are often more expensive than shared ones. Some travelers might wish to think about a fly-in safari on a 10-day journey, although fly-in safaris are relatively more costly than road safaris. Visitors should also note that low-season costs can also be advantageous, and even if it may rain more during this time, the countryside is most beautiful.

Highlights Of a 10 days Safari through Uganda

Discover the famous Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks homes to more than half of the remaining population of Mountain gorillas.

Primates Trekking. Look into the eyes of a mountain gorilla, Trek the Ugandan jungles to see chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus, golden monkeys, and many other primates.

Wildlife safaris to Uganda Savanah National Parks including Lake Mburo national game park, Queen Elizabeth national game park, and Murchison Falls National game park.

Rhino tracking at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

A visit to Murchison Falls National game park.

Private tour guide in English and other languages

Transport in a travel Van Customized for safaris.

Accommodation selected to fit your expectations

An All-inclusive safari including lodging, entrance fees, meals, and transport

Guided walks with professional and knowledgeable guides

Unique accommodations including safari lodges and tented camps in various parks.

Cultural encounters with some of Uganda’s unique societies

What is included in the Cost of a 10 days trip through Uganda

The Cost of Your 10 days Safari Includes Gorilla permits, Chimpanzee Permits, an Experienced English-speaking guide, Park entrance fees, Cultural Encounters, Luxury lodge accommodation, Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bottled water, Government taxes.

Tour exclusions

Visa fees, laundry services & alcoholic drinks, International/domestic flights, and Tips to the driver guides, waiters, and porters.

Must do tourist activity on a 10-day safari through Uganda

Gorilla trekking is the most popular activity for a 10 days Uganda safari. Gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Game. Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place in Uganda to track mountain gorillas. The park protects 40% of the world’s mountain gorilla population and has an incredible 350 species of birds.

Accommodation offered on a 10 days Uganda safari?

After a long day surveying the incredible landscape and Uganda wildlife, guests can look forward to the best safari accommodation Uganda offers. The accommodation here is excellent with numerous options from tented camps, and luxury lodges to camping grounds.

From camping in the bush with amenities to mid-range and luxury lodges, there’s something for everyone here. There are various accommodation options in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park including Gorilla Heights Lodge.

Most luxury lodges also offer a seating area with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with bathrobes, slippers, and a shower. There is also a kitchen in some of the units equipped with a microwave, an oven, and a stovetop.

Chameleon Hill Lodge in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a luxury lodge built overlooking Lake Mutanda. The lodge has a beautiful compound with great views of the three volcanoes and a superb spot for those who have come for gorilla trekking, bird watching, golden monkey tracking, or canoeing on Lake Mutanda.

What is the best time to go on a 10-day safari to Uganda?

The best time to go on a 10 days gorilla trek in Uganda is during its two dry seasons: between December and February, and between June and August, when conditions are particularly good for trekking to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and other wildlife animals.

Cost of a 10 days Safari to Uganda

Uganda Budget Safaris – Luxury Safaris through Uganda

Cost of a 10 days Safari to Uganda. Taking a Safari through Uganda is one of the best decisions anyone interested in experiencing the country should take. It allows one to have a true African experience from a single destination Uganda. The Safari involves trekking the Mountain Gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Game Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Game Park.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting activities while on a safari through Uganda and is a must-do. It involves a hike and trekking through the thick impenetrable vegetation of Bwindi impenetrable National game park until you have the opportunity to look directly into the eyes of the mountain gorillas.

For this exciting safari activity, we encourage visitors to carry their cameras and at times be on standby to take lifetime moments with the mountain gorillas with the Guidance of the game rangers.

What is the cost of a 10 Days trip to Uganda?

A 10 days safari through Uganda can cost anything between 5500 dollars to 3200 dollars per person. This is however dependent on quite several factors.  

The price of Safaris packages Through Uganda differs in price depending on several factors that have a significant impact on the overall safari cost. These factors are the basis of how safaris are divided into the categories of budget Mid-Range and Luxury.

Private tours are often more expensive than shared ones. Some travelers might wish to think about a fly-in safari on a 10-day journey, although fly-in safaris are relatively more costly than road safaris. Visitors should also note that low-season costs can also be advantageous, and even if it may rain more during this time, the countryside is most beautiful.

Highlights Of a 10 days Safari through Uganda

Discover the famous Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks homes to more than half of the remaining population of Mountain gorillas.

Primates Trekking. Look into the eyes of a mountain gorilla, Trek the Ugandan jungles to see chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus, golden monkeys, and many other primates.

Wildlife safaris to Uganda Savanah National Parks including Lake Mburo national game park, Queen Elizabeth national game park, and Murchison Falls National game park.

Rhino tracking at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

A visit to Murchison Falls National game park.

Private tour guide in English and other languages

Transport in a travel Van Customized for safaris.

Accommodation selected to fit your expectations

An All-inclusive safari including lodging, entrance fees, meals, and transport

Guided walks with professional and knowledgeable guides

Unique accommodations including safari lodges and tented camps in various parks.

Cultural encounters with some of Uganda’s unique societies

What is included in the Cost of a 10 days trip through Uganda

The Cost of Your 10 days Safari Includes Gorilla permits, Chimpanzee Permits, an Experienced English-speaking guide, Park entrance fees, Cultural Encounters, Luxury lodge accommodation, Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bottled water, Government taxes.

Tour exclusions

Visa fees, laundry services & alcoholic drinks, International/domestic flights, and Tips to the driver guides, waiters, and porters.

Must do tourist activity on a 10-day safari through Uganda

Gorilla trekking is the most popular activity for a 10 days Uganda safari. Gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Game. Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place in Uganda to track mountain gorillas. The park protects 40% of the world’s mountain gorilla population and has an incredible 350 species of birds.

Accommodation offered on a 10 days Uganda safari?

After a long day surveying the incredible landscape and Uganda wildlife, guests can look forward to the best safari accommodation Uganda offers. The accommodation here is excellent with numerous options from tented camps, and luxury lodges to camping grounds.

From camping in the bush with amenities to mid-range and luxury lodges, there’s something for everyone here. There are various accommodation options in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park including Gorilla Heights Lodge.

Most luxury lodges also offer a seating area with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with bathrobes, slippers, and a shower. There is also a kitchen in some of the units equipped with a microwave, an oven, and a stovetop.

Chameleon Hill Lodge in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a luxury lodge built overlooking Lake Mutanda. The lodge has a beautiful compound with great views of the three volcanoes and a superb spot for those who have come for gorilla trekking, bird watching, golden monkey tracking, or canoeing on Lake Mutanda.

What is the best time to go on a 10-day safari to Uganda?

The best time to go on a 10 days gorilla trek in Uganda is during its two dry seasons: between December and February, and between June and August, when conditions are particularly good for trekking to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and other wildlife animals.

Horse Riding Adventures in Jinja

Horse Riding Adventures in Jinja – Explore Jinja – Uganda Adventure Travel.

Horse riding through the rural villages of Jinja gives you a lifetime opportunity to see real Uganda, which includes not only the stunning beauty of the river Nile and rural areas but also the village homes, workplaces, trading centers, and lives of people who live around the area. While riding, you may be lucky and see wildlife (birds and monkeys on our rides) but horse-riding tours are not wildlife safaris, they are a snapshot of real-life Africa including all aspects both positive and negative. All rides finish with a stunning 1km trail along the Nile. On longer rides of 2 hours, you can also experience the views from the hills overlooking the Nile Valley and move through the stunning sugar and tea plantation.

The Jinja horse riding Adventure is operated by the Nile Horse Back Safaris offering a range of rides catering for first-timers to advanced riders. Most of the rides are private rides with only your group on the tour.

The adventure is open between 10 am and 4 pm every day unless you have pre-booked trips outside these hours. Bookings are offered for our 1hr, 1.5hr sunset, and 2hr rides so horses and guides are available when you arrive.

85kg is the rider weight limit for introductory safaris and an 80kg limit for longer rides. This is implemented for rider safety and also for the welfare of the horses. Every safari is taken care of by multiple guides to accommodate those that may want to try going faster and to also allow others to stay within their comfort zone.

The Horses.

There is availability of a range of sizes and breeds to suit everyone from beginners to advanced skill levels.  The horses come to northern Kenya when they are aged between 1 year and 3 years. The horses are trained for about a year before the guides begin to ride them and at least a year and a half before clients ride them. They are taken care of by a professional vet from South Africa twice every year and occasionally monitored by a local vet regularly. The horses are kept in immaculate condition and are trained in competition disciplines as well as being safari horses. They are well-behaved, safe, and bomb-proof, making them a pleasure to ride.

What is the cost of a horse-riding safari in Jinja?

The price cost of horse riding depends on how long the traveler would like to enjoy the horse ride since it is charged depending on how many hours the traveler would like to go. For example; For kids horse pony ride in an hour is 120,000/= per kid and for 30 minutes pony ride is 70,000/= per kid.

A one-hour horse ride cost 40 USD per adult, one hour and a half horse riding is 50 USD per adult, two hours horse ride is 60 per adult, three hours of horse riding is 90 USD per adult, for an overnight horse ride is 60 USD per adult.

How to book a horse ride safari in Jinja?

For direct bookings and inquiries, travelers can contact the Nile horseback safaris via email or a phone call to their reservation office in Jinja and they will be in a position to give them immediate feedback and they are ready to serve all time.

However, we normally advise travelers to book their horse ride safari in Jinja with an Uganda safari expert operator who will assist them with arranging accommodation, meals, and transportation, as well as giving them different opinions of how best they can enjoy a horse in Jinja. When you book with Katland Safaris, we will offer an extremely ordinary horse ride adventure experience together with our company safari guide who will accompany you to Jinja for your Horse-Riding adventure.

What to pack for a horse ride in Jinja?

For travelers planning to go for a horse ride safari in Jinja, we advise travelers to carry long-sleeved trousers for both men and women, comfortable sports shoes, a helmet or head hut for protection of the head from direct sun rays and in case of an accident, travelers should not forget a cream repellent to protect their skin shine rays on a horse ride a safari and a camera to capture those great memories.

For more information about arranging a horse-Riding Safari in Jinja, please contact Katland Safaris. We have the experience to customize your horse riding in Jinja with other activities on the source of the Nile such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, and zip lining among others that will offer you incredible adventure experiences in the pearl of Africa.

A 3 DAYS SAFARI TO FORT PORTAL WITH ACCOMODATION AT KYANINGA LODGE.

Have a great 3 days tour in Fort Portal where you will be able to take part in different activities like visiting Amabere Ga’nyinamwiru caves, taking part in cultural entertainment for both the Bakiga and Batooro, visiting Semuliki hot springs, exploring the craters of Fort Portal and enjoying the best of tea plantation viewing.

Detailed safari itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kampala to fort portal.

Be picked up from a hotel or any other place agreed upon and head to Fort Portal passing via Mityana and Mubende Highway. The road trip to this part of Uganda is amazing because you pass through different landscapes covered by hilly rocks like in Mubende, natural forests like the Matiri forest reserve, and Kibale forest.

These offer the best viewing for different primates like olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, Vervet monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys and if you are lucky enough, you will meet chimpanzees. The overall journey takes about 5 hours’ drive from Kampala but it can also take 4 hours depending on the speed. We will arrive in fortportal early enough to check into the lodge for relaxation and lunch.

After Lunch, we will head out for a community tour around the lake and experience the true Culture of the batooro. We will return to the lodge for relaxation, dinner and overnight stay

Meals: Lunch, and dinner

Accomodation is at Kyaninga Lodge

Day 2: Visit to Semuliki national game park and tour of the male and female hot springs.

Head to Bundibugyo District after your breakfast and make the first stopover at the viewpoint. At this point, you will witness the Rift Valley escarpment and enjoy the sharp corners on the foothill of the Rwenzori mountains. You are advised to carry something you can boil while in the Sempaya hot springs such as eggs, Irish, and bananas among others.

Arrive at the offices in Semuliki National Park and then you will have a short walk to these springs. Have a great experience as you enjoy the natural steam from these springs. After you will head back to Fort Port and at the lodge for lunch and a whole evening of relaxation over swimming and admiration of the beautiful vegetation surrounding of Lake Kyaninga.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Accomodation is at Kyaninga Lodge.

Day 3: Mabele Ganyinamwiru crater lakes tour and transfer to Kampala

Wake up in the morning at leisure for breakfast and head out for a short trip to explore some of the crater lakes that make frtportal a special place to be. Later head back to Kampala and be dropped at any agreed point which will mark the end of this 3 days tour.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

End of Safari.

Thanks for choosing to travel with Katland Safaris.

 The lodge selected and recommended is fit for both relaxation and adventure and will bring out an amazing experience.

Safari Includes.

• Two nights accomodation at Kyaninga lodge for a couple sharing.
• Services of an English driver guide
• Transportation in a 4×4 van customized for safari
• Fuel for the whole round trip
• Meals for the whole trip as described in the itinerary.
• Drinking water on board.
• All activities as described in the itinerary

1. Community walk
2. Swiming in the lake
3. Nature walk
4. Mabere Ganyinamwiru
5. Crater Lakes tour
6. Visit to semiliki hot Springs

Excludes

International Airfares

Tips and gratitude

Expenses of personal nature like alcoholic drinks.

Boat Safari in Murchison Falls National Park: A Comprehensive Guide to Game viewing in Murchison Falls National game park.

If you’re planning an adventure in Uganda, a boat safari in Murchison Falls National Park is an experience you won’t want to miss. This unique safari offers a different perspective on Uganda’s wildlife and scenery, combining relaxation with excitement. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about boat safaris in Murchison Falls National Park, including what to expect, highlights, and tips for making the most of your trip.

What to Expect on a Boat Safari

A boat safari in Murchison Falls National Park is a leisurely yet thrilling way to experience the park’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. These safaris typically take place on the Nile River, offering fantastic opportunities to spot animals and enjoy breathtaking views. Here’s what you can expect:

• Wildlife Encounters: The Nile is teeming with life, and you’ll likely see hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. Elephants and buffaloes can often be spotted drinking from the riverbanks.
• Scenic Beauty: The boat safari will take you close to the Murchison Falls, where the Nile dramatically plunges through a narrow gorge. The views are truly spectacular and provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides accompany you, offering insights into the park’s wildlife and natural history. They help enhance your experience with their expertise and local knowledge.

Highlights of the Boat Safari

1. Murchison Falls: The boat safari’s centerpiece is the magnificent Murchison Falls. Watching the Nile River force its way through a narrow chasm and tumble over the cliffs is a mesmerizing sight.
2. Hippo and Crocodile Watching: Hippos and crocodiles are common sights on the river. Observing these massive creatures in their natural habitat is both thrilling and educational.
3. Bird Watching: The Nile is a haven for birdwatchers. Expect to see a variety of bird species, including the majestic fish eagle and colorful kingfishers.
4. Sunset Cruises: For a more romantic and serene experience, consider a sunset cruise. The soft light and calm waters create a magical atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Tips for a Memorable Boat Safari

• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing and bring a hat and sunscreen. If you’re on an early morning or evening cruise, a light jacket might be useful.
• Bring Binoculars and a Camera: For wildlife spotting and capturing the stunning scenery, binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens are essential.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially if you’re on a longer cruise. Staying hydrated is important for enjoying the safari fully.
• Follow Safety Instructions: Listen carefully to your guide’s safety instructions and follow them to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Booking Your Boat Safari

Boat safaris in Murchison Falls National Park are popular, so it’s a good idea to book in advance. Many lodges and tour operators offer boat safari packages, which can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you choose a standard or private boat safari, make sure to select a reputable operator to ensure a high-quality experience.

Conclusion

A boat safari in Murchison Falls National Park is an unforgettable way to explore Uganda’s wildlife and natural beauty. From the dramatic falls to the diverse riverine wildlife, this safari offers a unique and enriching adventure. With the right preparation and a sense of adventure, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.

For more information on booking your boat safari and other activities in Murchison Falls National Park, feell free to contact us.

How Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas Survived Covid-19.

There are two subpopulations of mountain gorillas that are located around the Virunga Massif, which is bordered by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There is only one nation in the southwestern boundary region that has both subpopulations inside its boundaries, and that country is Uganda.

In order to encourage tourism and study, around sixty percent of Uganda’s mountain gorillas have become used to the presence of humans. This brings the gorillas closer to people on a regular basis. It is important to note that gorillas are vulnerable to human illnesses, such as viruses that cause deadly respiratory diseases such as COVID-19.

Mountain gorillas, like all other great apes, share 98% of the genetic DNA with humans which indicates that they are genetically connected to us as a species. There are presently no cases of COVID-19 infections in mountain gorillas; nonetheless, Uganda has taken quick action to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission from humans to gorillas out of concern for the possible spread of the virus.

In this section, we will try to explain how the mountain gorillas of Uganda managed to survive. The steps taken by the government and conservation organizations in order to protect mountain gorillas from the risk of contracting the Covid-19 illness.

It is impossible to overstate the severity of the risk that the COVID-19 epidemic presented to the endangered mountain gorillas, despite the fact that there are no words that can adequately depict the human agony and economic devastation that the pandemic wrought.

Over fifty percent of the mountain gorillas who are still alive on the planet have become used to people. As a result of their daily proximity to humans, there is a significant possibility that the pandemic will be transmitted to those who live in the forest.

Furthermore, the gorilla forests that are classified as highly protected are bordered by the greatest human population density in Africa. This creates an environment that is perfect for the COVID-19 virus to spread to the mountain gorillas.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority, in conjunction with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the International Gorilla Conservation Program (IGCP), and Gorilla Doctors, used all of these data as a basis for their reaction to the danger that the COVID-19 epidemic poses to the conservation of mountain gorillas.

All of them worked together to put into effect preventative measures that were mainly aimed at the human-gorilla interaction in the administration of protected areas.

Preventative measures in the vicinity of gorillas

In the end, mountain gorillas are a successful conservation effort since the bulk of the gorilla population, which accounts for around sixty percent of the total, has become used to human contact in order to promote tourism. There is no other primate species that is found in the wild that has such a big proportion of the overall population coming into close contact with humans on a daily basis or more.

In spite of the fact that gorilla tourism may make it possible to successfully execute conservation measures, it also presents challenges to the conservation of primates. Most importantly, it is widely established that mountain gorillas have in the past succumbed to human infections at locations where mountain gorillas and humans come into touch with one another. Respiratory infections caused by viruses may sometimes result in subsequent bacterial infections that are deadly.

As a result of the realization that mountain gorillas may be susceptible to infectious illnesses that are transmitted by humans, conservationists have been pushed to follow best practices in order to stop the pandemic from spreading into the gorilla woods.

A face mask is required to be worn by visitors, and they must maintain a distance of ten meters (32 feet) from the mountain gorillas. Before escorting guests inside the park, guides do temperature checks and disinfection of both the shoes and the hands of the guests arriving.

However, the best practices did not become operational until the issue was investigated and a contingency plan was developed. The goal of this strategy was to avoid any direct interaction between gorillas and humans (for example, visitors touching gorillas) and to reduce indirect contact with gorillas to the greatest degree feasible.

Gorilla tourism will be put on hold in order to formulate preventative recommendations.
On March 26, the Uganda Wildlife Authority decided to shut all of the country’s national parks as a precautionary measure against the pandemic danger confronting wild animals. During the process of preparing a backup plan for reopening, the University of Washington (UWA) put into action the strategy to safeguard staff, tourists, and animals.

Gorilla tourism is a key source of money for the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which is responsible for the operations of the organization. For the villages that are located in close proximity to the gorilla parks, it is a vital source of options for making a living.

As soon as the Ugandan government decided to put a stop to tourist operations, the number of park employees was reduced so that only a select few could continue to monitor the well-being and safety of the gorillas on a regular basis.

Daily temperature checks and self-assessments of indications of COVID-19 were to be performed by park workers, as they were trained to do. As the ability of laboratories throughout the nation to do diagnostic testing increased, the authorities in charge of protected areas took the initiative to conduct routine screenings of park employees.

In Bwindi National Park, for instance, rangers and trackers were subjected to COVID-19 testing before to reporting for rotational duty. The movement of people to and from their homes and communities was restricted, and only those persons who had not tested positive were assigned to ranger patrol positions for a period of fourteen days.

The spread of COVID-19 was seen in the majority of the towns and villages that were located in close proximity to mountain gorilla parks when the lockdown was in effect.

Despite the fact that the authorities in charge of the protected area had the best of intentions and made great attempts to screen park staff for COVID-19, gorilla specialists were concerned that there was an extremely high potential that a person who tested positive for COVID-19 would come into contact with gorillas. It may also become difficult, if not impossible, to contain the epidemic inside the mountain gorilla zone.

The activities that took place in the villages that were located in close proximity to the national parks in Uganda came to a standstill for an even longer amount of time after they were opened. This was due to the fact that Uganda had suspended and closed the parks for over nine months.

During that time period, several establishments such as lodges, camps, and hotels were shut down, which resulted in the jobless members of the community. In order to provide for their families, a handful of them resorted to engaging in criminal activities inside the park.

Over the course of the first three months of Uganda’s tourist shutdown, the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s patrol activities gathered more than twice as many snares as are typically discovered in wildlife-protected regions around the country. Including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is home to about half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, which is believed to number 1,063.

The lack of tourism that occurred in Bwindi during the COVID-19 shutdown was a significant factor that led to the death of a dominant male gorilla of the species. A member of the community who was hungry and weak was responsible for the death of the lead silverback of the Nkuringo gorilla group on June 1, 2020. The individual was hunting duiker and bush pigs with the purpose of consuming them and selling them at the local market.

Despite the fact that gorillas are not consumed in Uganda, they are often caught in traps that were designed to catch other animals. As a result of the cry that the bush pig let out after being speared by the poacher, the silverback gorilla charged the poacher in order to defend his family.

The poacher then proceeded to knife and kill the gorilla, alleging that it was acting in self-defense at the time. The poacher was given a sentence of eleven years in prison, which is the harshest punishment that has ever been handed down to a person in Uganda for the crime of murdering wild animals.

Although the punitive sentencing was meant to discourage other members of the community, it was anticipated that similar instances would occur among members of the community who were in a desperate situation since there were no food sources available because tourism had been suspended. In the time since Rafiki’s passing, thankfully, no other gorilla has been afflicted with the same destiny.

To facilitate the resumption of tourist operations, the Ugandan government, acting via the Uganda Wildlife Authority and in conjunction with other tourism stakeholders, established stringent operational protocols.

The operating methods of the public health system.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority, with the assistance of the International Gorilla Conservation Programme (IGCP), established recommendations in 1993 to reduce the risk of disease transmission between humans and gorillas.

These guidelines were taken into consideration when tourism started. In accordance with these regulations, visitors were not permitted to approach the gorillas if they were exhibiting symptoms of sickness, should keep a distance of seven meters, and should turn aside in order to cough or sneeze.

As a result of the epidemic, the viewing distance between humans and gorillas increased to a distance of ten meters (32 inches). Masks are required to be worn by all visitors, rangers, and medical personnel in order to reduce the risk of respiratory infections being transmitted to gorillas. In addition to this, they are required to conduct a screening for symptoms, sterilize, and maintain a certain social distance.

Conservation groups such as the Center for Tropical and Public Health (CTPH), the International Gorilla Conservation Program (IGCP), Gorilla Doctors, the Max Planck Institute, and Bwindi Community Hospital collaborated to provide training to park workers in order to reduce the likelihood of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections traveling from humans to gorillas.

A total of four hundred park employees were instructed to wear protective face masks, to practice proper hand hygiene, and to maintain an excellent viewing distance of ten meters. The rangers were provided with hand sanitizers and face masks made of an additional layer of fabric.

Before entering the forest, each individual was required to wash their hands, disinfect their footwear, and enable obligatory temperature tests. Additionally, they were required to allow temperature checks to be performed on them.

The same training was provided to one hundred nineteen community volunteers who were referred to as the Gorilla Guardians. Their purpose was to assist in herding mountain gorillas from community land to the park location.

There are a few days in each month when the activity takes place among habituated gorilla groups in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Additionally, the Gorilla Guardians were provided with regular loth face masks, hand sanitizers, liquid soap, and infrared thermometers that do not need touch.

At both the family and village level, behavior change communication was carried out by trained Village Health and Conservation Teams. The fact that they assist communities in adhering to public health operational norms in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 has led to an increase in the number of handwashing facilities that people have installed in their houses out of fear of catching the illness.

Together with the University of Washington and local health offices, the Uganda Virus Research Institute, the University of Madison-Wisconsin, and other collaborators, the Connecticut Department of Public Health is conducting COVID-19 tests on gorillas and individuals who interact with gorillas both within and outside of the park.

These operations have been generously financed by a large number of foreign donors, including the foreign Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Save the Species, the European Union, the British High Commission, and private benefactors.

The mountain gorillas of Uganda have been able to survive the Covid-19 outbreak because to all of the measures described above.

Community projects that promote sustainability

In addition, the lack of revenue from tourism constituted a danger to the existence of mountain gorillas. This is because the economic motivation for people to preserve mountain gorillas by avoiding accessing their environment in order to hunt infected individuals was eliminated. Furthermore, there was a decrease in the cash generated by tourists, which is essential for maintaining park activities, such as anti-poaching patrols.

By noting the fact that the advantages of minimizing illicit entrances into gorilla habitats exceeded the danger of infecting primates with COVID-19, the government decided to resume primate tourism at the end of September 2020.

This decision was made in response to the circumstance described above. It was also noticed that immunizations and rigorous adherence to standard operating procedures (which were addressed previously) have greatly decreased the danger of contracting the Covid-19 virus.

Residents in the surrounding areas were filled with optimism when Uganda’s gorilla parks were reopened in October of 2020. It helped to reduce the amount of poaching that occurred and provided cash that was used to assist law enforcement activities to protect gorillas and other animals.

Today, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from across the world have come together to support a number of community sustainability projects, such as the ‘Ready to Grow’ Program at CTPH and Gorilla Conservation Coffee.

Every single person who travels to Uganda for the purpose of gorilla trekking makes a contribution, in some form or another, to a community initiative that is designed to assist the people who live in the areas around gorilla parks.

Either by paying for accommodation that employs a local or by eating a meal consisting of fresh vegetables at a lodge that is located close to a gorilla park, it is possible to do so. Within the realm of community sustainability projects, gorilla conservation stands out as one of the most effective programs globally. It is possible that this is the single most important factor that contributed to the survival of Uganda’s mountain gorillas during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda Katland Safaris Ltd. provides you with the chance to encounter mountain gorillas in Uganda, contribute to primate conservation projects, and assist impoverished people in coping with life outside of national gorilla parks.

We tailor our gorilla trekking excursions to meet your specific financial requirements. These services include taking care of your lodging, transportation, food, and the logistics of the government organization. If you would want to discuss your gorilla trekking safari, please write us an email us about the matter. We will assist you in planning and provide you with a free rapid quotation.

How to book Bwindi gorilla trekking permits

All gorilla safari preparations in the prehistoric Bwindi Impenetrable National Park begin with the booking of a gorilla trekking permit. All gorilla permits in Uganda are sold and governed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. In a location devoid of tourists, Bwindi Forest offers an astounding array of natural treasures.

For expedited administrative services, all Bwindi Gorilla permits are reserved based on the park’s divisions. The Buhoma region in the north, the Ruhija region in the east, and the Rushaga and Nkuringo regions in the south are the four gorilla trekking locations in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

This is why you should find out which area your gorilla permit is scheduled in before making any reservations for lodging during the gorilla safari. About 327 square kilometers of pure woodland make up Bwindi’s impenetrable national park, which is difficult to go through in a hurry. Due to potential obstacles like slick roads, fog, complete darkness, flat tires, etc., the journey from one place to another is somewhat drawn out and unsettling. If you don’t attend the briefing, you can miss the gorilla trekking day.

Let’s first define a gorilla permit card before moving on to the specifics of how to reserve a gorilla trekking permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

What is a card for a gorilla trekking permit?

A gorilla permission card is a reusable plastic card with a black stripe on the reverse that stores and retrieves your passport information on the day of the gorilla trek. The Uganda Wildlife Authority is the exclusive owner of this gorilla trekking permit card.

How Do I Go About Scheduling a Bwindi Gorilla Permit?

Decide on a date for your gorilla trekking safari, either formally or informally. It’s great to know how many gorilla permits you want to reserve.

Speak with the Uganda Wildlife Authority directly or an authorized travel agency such as katland Safari. Keep in mind that the Uganda Wildlife Authority reservation office’s phone lines are frequently busy, so you’ll need to be patient.

Our safari adviser looks up availability from the Uganda Wildlife Authority gorilla permit list after receiving your inquiry.

When gorilla permits are available, we encourage customers to get them in advance to prevent last-minute requests when they sell out. During the peak months of June, July, August, September, December, and January, the majority of gorilla permits are sold out in advance.

For comfortable gorilla safari preparation, it is best to reserve your gorilla permit at least six months to a year in advance.

You must send us your passport information, including your entire name as it appears on the document, nationality, birthdate, and passport expiration date, before you can pick up your Uganda gorilla permission card.

What is the price of a permit to trek with gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

A Uganda gorilla trekking permit currently costs $800 per person per trek, $700 per person each trek, and 300000shs for residents of East Africa.

Purchasing a mountain gorilla permit helps ensure the mountain gorillas have a sustainable existence. By the 1980s, American primatologist Dian Fossey and his team conducted a population census and found that there were approximately 300 mountain gorillas left in the world, putting these primates in danger of extinction.

By participating in gorilla trekking, you may help the fund that sustains the conservation effort for mountain gorillas.

What does the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Gorilla Trekking Permit include and exclude?

The price of each gorilla trekking permit covers park admission costs, nationality, birthdate, ranger guide services, assistance for the local community, gorilla conservation, and a certificate at the conclusion of the journey.

The price of a gorilla permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park does not include transportation to gorilla trekking sites, lodging during a gorilla safari, tips, snacks to eat on the trek, or a packed lunch.

Your ideal African primate vacation with the mountain gorillas can be realized with katland Safaris. We have developed business relationships with a wide range of lodging establishments of all price ranges in our field. Depending on the length of your Uganda safari, we may help you create an itinerary that fits your needs and priorities.

When Can I Reserve Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Gorilla Permits?

It is comfortable to book your gorilla permit at least six months to a year in advance, but you can do it as early as three months before the day of the gorilla trek. Permits to enter Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are available year-round, however gorilla permits are in high demand during the busiest times of the year and quickly sell out. A maximum of eight gorilla permits per day per hike are available, thus reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis.

Because there is less demand for safaris during the low season, which runs from March to May and November, you may be able to get last-minute gorilla permits for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Can Gorilla Permits for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park be rescheduled?

You must first request permission in writing from the Uganda Wildlife Authority if you would like to change the date of your gorilla permit.

If you want to move your gorilla permit, you must have a new date in mind.

Request a new date for your gorilla permit in writing to the Uganda Wildlife Authority. If you have a valid cause, including it as an attachment. This serves as a fallback for your request to reschedule your gorilla permit.

Your gorilla permit is shifted to the new date according on availability when your request is approved.

Can I Receive My Money Back for My Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Gorilla Permit?

The Uganda Wildlife Authority’s refund policy applies to gorilla permit refunds. Your gorilla permit is considered void if you fail to show up on the day of the gorilla hike without providing the Uganda Wildlife Authority with supporting documentation of your whereabouts. The validity of each gorilla trekking permit is limited to the day of the hike.

In accordance with the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s refund policy, you must take care of this in advance if you must cancel your gorilla trekking expedition but would still prefer a return for your permit.

During a gorilla trek, what ensures that you will find the mountain gorillas?

There is a 99% likelihood of finding the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. An adult male mountain gorilla weighs roughly 300 kg, making them large animals. Because of their immense stature, mountain gorillas are unable to move quickly through the forest.

For this reason, you begin your gorilla trekking day by following the train where the mountain gorilla was last spotted the day before. Usually, they don’t feed that far away.

You might get reimbursed roughly 75% of the price of your gorilla permit in Uganda if you spend the entire day gorilla trekking and are unable to find the mountain gorillas.

What is the minimum age to reserve a permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

The minimum age requirement for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is 15 years of age or older. This is due to the volcanic terrain of the Bwindi forest, which features rocky hills whose slopes can serve as areas for the mountain gorillas to feed or relax.

Hiking these ridges and plateaus may not be quick for kids under fifteen.

Because of the frequent rains and the extensive network of rivers that could flood everywhere, the path to find the mountain gorillas can occasionally get slick. Youngsters under the age of fifteen might not be able to navigate these surfaces.

Because of their physical appearance, which can raise adrenaline levels, mountain gorillas may initially appear frightening. Someone might shout if they are unsteady. If children under the age of 15 are permitted to go gorilla trekking, this reaction is more likely to occur. Mountain gorillas may withdraw into the dense forest when there is disturbance because they are frightened of strange sounds and activities.

Which lodging options are available in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking?

You must first be aware of the location where your gorilla permit is booked in order to reserve lodging for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The four sections of Bwindi Forest—Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo—each have their own accommodations.

Accommodations in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The Buhoma region Accommodations include Volcanoes Lodge, Engage Lodge, Silverback Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Bwindi View Bandas, Gorilla Forest Camp, and Gorilla Resort.

Accommodations in the Nkuringo area: Gorilla Hill Eco Lodge, Clouds Lodge, and Nkuringo Safari Lodge

Accommodations in the Rushaga area include the Trekkers’ Tavern, Broadbill Camp, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Nshongi Camp, and Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge.

Accommodations in the Ruhija vicinity include Chameleons’, Broad Bill Lodge, and Ruhija Gorilla Lodge.

How Can I Get to the Impenetrable National Park of Bwindi?

From Buhoma to Kabale, Kanungu, and Kampala
You travel 414 kilometers on the highway to Kabale, which takes five to six hours. You spend an additional four to five hours traveling 150 kilometers on a winding Murram road through Kanungu and Kanyantorogo. A 4×4 wheel drive vehicle is required.

Between Kampala, Ntungamo, Rukungiri, Kihihi, and Buhoma
It is the most direct route from Kampala or Entebbe airport, where you travel 390 kilometers to Rukungiri and then 82 kilometers to Buhoma along a Murram road.

From Buhoma via Ruhija to Kabale to Kampala
You require a 4×4 wheel drive car to go the 414 kilometers from Kampala to Kabale and then the 95 kilometers to Ruhija to Buhoma road, which is in bad shape.

Queen Elizabeth National Park From Kihihi to Buhoma
You can drive roughly 160 kilometers from the Mweya area to Buhoma and 64 kilometers from the Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha section.

How Secure Is It to Trek Gorillas in the Impenetrable National Park of Bwindi?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is safe because all of the gorilla families that are available for reservations are acclimated to human presence. In order to acclimate a family of wild mountain gorillas to human presence without changing the natural environment, researchers and trackers utilize a technique called “gorilla habituation.”

Depending on how long the mountain gorillas take to adjust to human presence, the gorilla habituation process can take up to two years. This time frame is sufficient to eliminate any potential hostility that might develop between people and mountain gorillas.

Each gorilla trekking group is escorted by a well-trained team of rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, one of whom is armed with a rifle and the other with a machete. These gadgets are used to time creepers and make room for tourists, or you can use a rifle to protect yourself if necessary.

What Rules Apply When Trekking with Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

When you find the mountain gorillas, stay around 8 meters away from them. This will lessen the possibility of infecting the mountain gorillas.
Volunteer to stay behind if you are ill, especially if you have a contagious illness like the flu, a cough, or COVID-19. Human infections can seriously harm mountain gorillas.
Children must be at least 15 years old to participate in gorilla trekking.
Always have a ranger guide accompany you when you enter Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Ask the ranger guide to dig a hole approximately 30 cm deep and cover it completely if you need to urinate.
It is prohibited to spit on plants or the ground since doing so could infect mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants.
It is prohibited to provoke mountain gorillas because doing so could drive them into hiding, yet you are only permitted to spend an hour with them.
Avoid using a flashlight when shooting pictures since the mountain gorillas may become frightened by unexpected events in the outdoors.
To avoid tempting the mountain gorillas to take stuff from you, if you want to eat or smoke, do it away from them. They must not be dependent on human sustenance because they are wild creatures.
When you find the mountain gorillas, you have only one hour to wait.

Are there habituated mountain gorillas in Uganda?

Both Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are home to habituated mountain gorillas in Uganda. There are currently two semi-habituated gorilla families available for habituation experiences and 19 gorilla trekking families in Uganda that are completely acclimated to human presence.

The habituation of a wild gorilla family must come first in order to establish a gorilla trekking family. Depending on how the mountain gorillas adjust, the period required to complete gorilla habituation may take up to two years.

Only four hours are permitted to be spent with mountain gorillas for gorilla habituation, and one hour is permitted for gorilla trekking fun.

To determine whether Uganda has habituated mountain gorillas, we must first understand gorilla habituation.

Gorilla Habituation: What Is It?

The technique of acclimating a family of wild mountain gorillas to human presence without changing their character is known as “gorilla habituation.” The gorilla habituation process

comprises researchers and trackers who document the gorilla family and the characteristics of each individual.

When tourists are assigned to a specific gorilla family during gorilla trekking, they are informed of this information. In Uganda, gorilla trekking began in 1993 after the Mubare Gorilla family began the gorilla habituation process in the 1990s. The rest is history.

Experience with Gorilla Habituation?

Two gorilla families have been designated thus far for the gorilla habituation experience in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.

In the gorilla habituation experience, you accompany a group of researchers and trackers to spend four hours with a family of semi-habituated gorillas in the wild. Gorilla habituation is permitted for a maximum of four tourists per day.

A gorilla habituation permit must be purchased from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Gorilla Habituation Permit?

It costs $1500 per person per trek for foreign nonresidents, $1000 for foreign residents, and 750,000shs for East African citizens to obtain a gorilla habituation permit.

Gorilla Permit Cost Inclusions and Exclusions
The following is included in the price of a gorilla permit:

Park admission costs.
safety when trekking for gorillas.
charge for research.
With the mountain gorillas for four hours.
services for ranger guides.
conservation of mountain gorillas.
assistance from the local community.
Transportation to the gorilla habituation site, gratuities, beverages, and any other personal belongings are not included in the cost of a gorilla permit.

Does Uganda Accept Instalments for Gorilla Permit Purchases?

The best course of action is to pay for your gorilla permit in full. You can, however, pay for this gorilla permit in 30% and 70% installments.

You must buy your gorilla permit 90 days prior to the gorilla habituation date in order to be eligible for an installment purchase. If you don’t renew your gorilla habituation permit within ninety days of the gorilla trekking date, you may be penalized.

Gorilla trekking: what is it?

Following a completely habituated gorilla family in the wild and spending just one hour with them is known as gorilla trekking. To see the mountain gorillas on the trekking safari, you need to buy a gorilla permit.

What is the cost of a Ugandan gorilla trekking permit?

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit is 300000shs for East African citizens, $700 for foreign residents, and $800 for foreign nonresidents.

An hour with the mountain gorillas, park entrance fees, conservation assistance for the gorillas, support for the local community, and ranger guide services are all included in the price of a gorilla trekking permit.

Tips, transportation, lodging, snacks, and any other personal belongings are not included in the price of a gorilla permit.

katland Safaris makes it easy for our customers to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience by organizing gorilla safari packages. We make reservations for lodging, car rentals, and other safari extras that enhance a visitor’s gorilla safari experience.

Where in Uganda might one locate habituated mountain gorillas?

As shown below, each of the two gorilla parks in Uganda where gorilla safaris are conducted—Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park—has its own habituated gorilla family.

Impenetrable National Park in Bwindi

There are eighteen completely habituated gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park that are accessible to tourists. This enormous forest was split up into four gorilla trekking regions for administrative reasons:

The northern region of Buhoma
The Eastern region of Ruhija
The region of Rushaga
The southern region of Nkuringo
Area-specific gorilla permits are restricted for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Every region has gorilla families that are completely habituated, such as

The Mubare family, also known as Group M, the Rushegura family, popularly known as Group R, and the Habinyanja family, also known as Group H, are found in the Buhoma area of Northern Bwindi Forest. The Uganda Wildlife Authority habituated several of these gorilla families early on.

As of right now, the Bitukura, Oruzogo, Kyaguriro, and Mukisa families reside in the Ruhija area of Eastern Bwindi Forest.

Southern Bwindi Forest’s Rushaga area is home to the Busingye, Bweza, Mucunguzi, Kahungye, Nshongi, Rwigi, and Mishaya families.

The Nkuringo, Muhozi, and Christmas families are all found in the Nkuringo region of the southern Bwindi forest.

Keep in mind that since gorilla habituation is being conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the number of gorilla families is continually growing.

For the purpose of gorilla habituation, two gorilla families in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park have been split up. Before being permitted to take part in this expedition, each participant must get a gorilla habituation permit.

Park in Mgahinga National

There is currently only one gorilla family in Mgahinga National Park that is accustomed to human visitors. It was difficult to reserve gorilla permits in advance because this family of primates used to migrate into Rwanda. The only gorilla family that is habituated in Mgahinga National Park is the Nyakagezi family.

The briefing for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park is held at the Ntebeko Visitor Center.

Other primates found in the park include olive baboons, black and white colobus, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, golden and blue monkeys, and others.

How Do I Reserve a Ugandan Gorilla Permit?

You can book a gorilla permit by following the steps below, whether you’re going gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation.

Choose the date you want to engage in habituation or gorilla trekking. The date and the quantity of individuals you want to go on this African trip with may be confirmed or tentative.

It should be noted that eight people per gorilla family is the maximum number permitted for gorilla trekking, while four people per gorilla family is the maximum for gorilla habituation.

Wait for a response whether you ask katland Safaris if gorilla permits are available for the dates you have selected or if you inquire directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority’s gorilla permit availability list is used by our safari consultant to verify availability. One of the recognized safari operators authorized by the Uganda Wildlife Authority to acquire gorilla permits is katland Safaris.

Send your passport information, including your full name as it appears on the document, country, birthdate, passport expiration date, and other facts, so that it can be included to your gorilla permit card.

How old can you be to go on a gorilla safari in Uganda?

The minimum age to embark on a gorilla safari in Uganda is 15. The volcanic nature of the region’s geography is the source of this. You should anticipate hiking across various peaks and plateaus where mountain gorillas occasionally spend a portion of the day.

If the mountain gorillas are relaxing on the slopes of these highlands, it might be difficult for kids younger than this to hike to them.

Because mountain gorillas enjoy roaming the jungle, it takes some patience to do gorilla trekking or habituation; occasionally, the mountain gorillas move quite quickly, making the gorilla journey take longer. Gorilla hikers under the age of 15 may find this difficult to endure.

Because of their stature and dark fur, mountain gorillas can make you feel a little more apprehensive. The mountain gorillas may become agitated and flee into hiding if you respond suspiciously in front of them. Children under the age of fifteen find it difficult to control this kind of reaction, which might result in a loud outcry that could frighten the mountain gorillas and cause them to flee into hiding.

How Much Does a Gorilla Safari in Uganda Cost?

Whether going on a gorilla trek or a habituation experience, the first expense of a Ugandan gorilla safari is the gorilla permit. Whether choosing the premium, mid-range, or budget packages, the gorilla permit fees are the same.

When determining a gorilla safari package, other elements to take into account are:

As the number of persons participating in a gorilla safari increases, the cost per person decreases. You are responsible for any gorilla safari expenses if you are traveling alone.

The best time to reserve a gorilla safari is during the busiest times of the year, when service companies raise their rates. The price of the gorilla safari can occasionally be reduced by offering travelers discounts during the off-peak months.

Number of days on a gorilla safari: The cost of a gorilla safari increases with the number of days.

Other activities that can be combined with gorilla trekking include game drives, launch expeditions, chimpanzee trekking, and others.

When can I anticipate returning from my trip with gorilla trekking or habitat?

Depending on how long it takes to find the mountain gorillas, returning from gorilla habituation or trekking is variable. While some visitors spend more time in the forest, others have been fortunate enough to spot the mountain gorillas within two hours.

Only one hour is permitted to spend time with the mountain gorillas during gorilla trekking after they have been located. You are permitted to spend four hours with the mountain gorillas during gorilla habituation.

When you hope to find the mountain gorillas depends on the speed of the party you are gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation with.

A gorilla family may break up or some members may lose their lives in combat when they fight. The gorilla family feels depressed as a result, which can drive them to the park’s more remote areas.

There may be a delay in finding the mountain gorillas if the dominant silverback is an adventurous member of the gorilla family, forcing the other members to follow his pastime and continue to move through the jungle.

The trails are slick and wet from the constant rains that fall throughout the extreme rainy season, which typically lasts from March to May and November. However, less sunlight can reach the ground during this time.

What are Uganda’s gorilla safari regulations?

Gorilla trekking is limited to one hour, and four hours are permitted with the mountain gorillas once you have located them for gorilla habituation. They are accustomed to spending only that amount of time with people, leaving them to carry out their daily tasks.
It is prohibited to eat or smoke before seeing mountain gorillas. To prevent them from being tempted to steal what you are eating, please do this at least 300 meters away from them. Since they are untamed creatures, they have to look for nourishment.
Due to the nature of the gorilla trekking environment, only youngsters aged 15 and over are permitted to participate. Due to their travel, the best time to locate the mountain gorillas is still up in the air.
It is prohibited to spit on the ground or foliage since this could infect mountain gorillas with pathogens. Mountain gorillas are susceptible to human infectious diseases such as cholera, flu, cough, and COVID-19.
Volunteer to stay behind if you have a contagious illness so that the mountain gorillas are not exposed to such illnesses. It is unknown how widespread this sickness could be and how many mountain gorillas it could kill.
Wearing a clean mask prior to seeing mountain gorillas is one of the precautions taken to stop the COVID-19 virus and other pathogens from infecting the primates.
To stop any infection from spreading, keep a minimum of 8 meters between you and the mountain gorillas when you find them.
In order to avoid frightening the mountain gorillas, it is prohibited to make loud noises in the jungle. They are vulnerable to strange noises around them.
Since mountain gorillas may hide from strange light, flash photography is not allowed when taking pictures.
Because it changes the environment in which mountain gorillas live, it is prohibited to throw trash into the forest during gorilla trekking.